ABSU Students Decry Soaring Lodge Rents, Urge Government Action
Abia State University students protest soaring lodge rents in Uturu Campus, calling for immediate government intervention to address the crisis.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a recent outcry, students of Abia State University (ABSU) in Uturu Campus have voiced their distress over the relentless surge in lodge rents, prompting urgent intervention from the state government. Comr. Chinenye Chidirim Emmanuel, the Union's President, passionately addressed the issue during a radio broadcast, condemning what he described as an "outrageous and unbearable" situation.
SEE: ABSU 100 Level Students Find Solace in Faith Following First Semester Results
According to Comr. Emmanuel, the arbitrary hikes in rents by landlords have left students grappling with exorbitant fees, exacerbating the already challenging economic conditions prevailing in the country. He emphasized the unjust nature of the increases, asserting that it reflects a lack of empathy and compassion, particularly given the financial strain on students.
Highlighting the dire circumstances faced by many students, Comr. Emmanuel revealed that single-room self-contained apartments, some lacking basic amenities like electricity and water, now command staggering prices ranging between N200,000 to N400,000. He lamented the plight of students who find themselves homeless due to abrupt eviction notices following rent hikes, which contravene existing tenancy agreements.
READ: Creativity Speaks as Abia State University Students Celebrate Old School Costume Day
In a plea directed at the Abia State Government and human rights activists, Comr. Emmanuel urged swift intervention to address the issue and provide a lasting solution. He called for measures to subsidize rent costs and regulate the activities of house agents and agencies, advocating for fairness and accountability in the housing sector.
FOLLOW: ABSU SUG Presents Thrilling Movie Night to Student Community
Furthermore, Comr. Emmanuel appealed for the restoration of power supply to the Uturu environment, recognizing the critical role of electricity in facilitating conducive living conditions for students. Despite the challenges, he encouraged students to maintain peace and solidarity while expressing optimism that the current hardships would eventually dissipate.
In conclusion, Comr. Okon Victor, the SUG PRO, echoed Comr. Emmanuel's sentiments, emphasizing the need for prompt governmental action to alleviate the burden on ABSU students. The call for intervention underscores the urgency of addressing the escalating rent crisis to ensure the well-being and academic success of the student populace.
